Meningococcal disease is a bacterial infection that can cause meningitis and bloodstream infections. In the UK, a serious meningococcal disease outbreak is currently being tackled by health authorities in Kent, where two young people have died. The UK Health Security Agency has advised that the situation is evolving and further cases are possible. The HSE said its national Public Health team remains in regular contact with the UK Health Security Agency to inspect the issue further. “Routine surveillance in Ireland continues to show that meningococcal disease remains a rare but serious infection, with sporadic cases occurring each year,” said Dr Cuddihy.

Source: The Herald March 19, 2026 18:00 UTC